A woman has died following a crash involving a lorry and a cyclist on Portobello High Street.
The incident took place around 2.45pm yesterday (Monday, 2 November) and the 36-year-old cyclist was pronounced dead at the scene.
Sergeant Mark Banner, from Police Scotland’s Road Policing Unit, said: “Our thoughts are with the deceased’s family at this tragic time.
“We are asking for anyone who was in the area and saw the collision take place to place come forward. If you have potential dashcam or CCTV footage in that area around 2.45pm, that could also greatly assist our enquiries.”
INCIDENT UPDATE:
THE cyclist who died after being involved in a collision with a lorry has been named as Heather Stronach.
The incident took place around 2.45pm on Monday, 2 November, on Portobello High Street heading towards Sir Harry Lauder Road. The 36-year-old was pronounced dead at the scene.Enquiries to establish the full circumstances are ongoing.
Heather’s husband, Martyn Stronach, said: “Heather loved to ride her bike. I am feeling pretty lost. I have lost my best friend and my soul mate.”
The family has requested privacy at this time.
Sergeant Mark Banner, of the Road Policing Unit, said: “We are still appealing for anyone who witnessed this incident, either shortly before or during, to contact us.”I’d also ask drivers who were in the area around 2.45pm to check their dash-cam footage.”
Anyone with information should contact Police Scotland on 101 quoting incident number 1829 of 2 November 2020.
Police are appealing for information after an assault with intent to rob in the Stockbridge area.
The incident happened around 6.30pm last night (Thursday, 29 October) on India Place. A 25-year-old woman was walking along the road when she was approached by two males, one of whom grabbed hold of the women while the other tried to steal her handbag. One of the males struck the victim in the face twice and caused her to fall to the ground. The victim didn’t require hospital treatment.
The first suspect is described as a white male, approximately between 5ft 6ins and 5ft 8ins tall and of slim build. He was wearing a dark coloured zipped jacket with the hood up, dark coloured trousers with a single white stripe on each leg and a plastic green monster Halloween mask.
The second suspect is described as a white male, approximately between 5ft 6ins and 5ft 8ins tall and of slim build. He was wearing dark cotton material clothing with the hood up and a red Halloween mask.
Detective Constable Zaira Marker, of Corstorphine CID, said: “We would urge anyone who was in the area around the time of the incident and may have witnessed the assault or anyone who saw the males fitting the description before or after the incident to contact police.
“We would also ask anyone with dash-cam footage who was in the area around the time of the incident to get in touch.”
Anyone with information should contact Police Scotland on 101 quoting incident number 2760 of 29 October
Police Scotland has confirmed that a 52 year old man has been arrested and charged in connection with an incident which saw a man threatened with a weapon and a three figure sum of cash stolen.
This incident happened on Friday, 10 July at Gorgie Farm on Gorgie Road.
The accused is due to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court at a later date.
Police would like to thank the public for their assistance following our appeal for information.
Police in Edinburgh have launched their annual campaign to keep the public safe during the period between Halloween and Bonfire Night.
Operation Crackle will see local officers throughout the Capital out on patrol during evenings and weekends to deter antisocial and criminal activity involving fireworks and keep communities safe from disorder and damage.
Halloween and Bonfire Night weekends are typically some of the busiest times for police, not only in Edinburgh, but across the city, and as always a partnership approach is being taken by the division.
Working alongside the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and City of Edinburgh Council, officers have been engaging with young people through school inputs and social media to highlight the risks associated with fireworks and the consequences of getting involved in any forms of crime using these items.
In addition, police have conducted joint patrols with council environmental wardens and SFRS personnel to carry out environmental audits and identify any debris or materials that could be used to start bonfires.
When found, these items have been removed.
While working to ensure the safety of the public within the city, Operation Crackle also looks to preserve the safety of all emergency service workers deployed during the coming weekends.
A zero tolerance approach towards violence and threatening behaviour is being taken and everyone is urged to act responsibly if handling fireworks.
Supporting Operation Crackle, Police Scotland’s national initiative, Operation Moonbeam is again in place to support local divisions with a range of additional and specialist resources.
These additional officers can be used if public disorder and violence takes place requiring a more robust response.
Dispersal zones will be in operation across Edinburgh again this year in an attempt to combat antisocial behaviour and disorder over the bonfire period.
This is the third year dispersal zones have operated across the city. The zones will run between 2pm and midnight on Wednesday 4th November to Saturday 7th November.
The areas covered by the zones include Muirhouse, West Pilton, Portobello, Loganlea, Saughton, Gorgie, Gilmerton, Moredun and Southhouse.
The dispersal zones enable police to instruct groups of two or more people who are congregating and behaving in an antisocial manner in these areas to disperse. Those who fail to comply, or fail to stay away for up to 24 hours, can face arrest.
Police are asking parents and guardians to have frank conversations with young people in their care and remind them to behave in a manner that does not put themselves, or others, at risk of harm.
Unlike previous years, organised Bonfire Night events have all been cancelled as a result of COVID-19. Police patrols will take place across the city to identify illegal bonfires, as well as deal with any breaches of current Scottish Government coronavirus restriction legislation.
Chief Inspector David Happs, who is leading on Operation Crackle, said: “We know that the vast majority of those who purchase fireworks do so in order to enjoy Bonfire Night responsibly. However, a small minority use the Halloween and Bonfire Night period to get involved in disorder and commit acts of violence and damage.
“Let me make it clear, that such behaviour is not acceptable and if you are involved in criminality involving fireworks, you can expect to be arrested. If not on the night, then as we carry out follow-up inquiries.
“I know many people will be really disappointed that they are unable to attend organised events this year, but I would urge everyone to be mindful of existing guidelines and legislation aimed at stopping the spread of COVID-19. Please do not do anything that puts you in breach of the current restrictions.
“For the past three years, we have been able to call upon additional specialist national resources to assist local officers. Once again, these officers are available if they are needed and I’m grateful to have them as an operational consideration.
“We want everyone to have a great Halloween and Bonfire Night, but please enjoy these events responsibly and help us keep you, and everyone else, safe throughout.”
Kenny Rogers, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Local Senior Officer for the City of Edinburgh, said: “This Bonfire Night will be a different experience for many of us.
“We know that many organised public displays have been cancelled due to COVID-19 and that some may consider private use of fireworks in their gardens.
“We would urge caution over the private use of fireworks and remind people that these items can pose grave dangers.
“If you are planning on using fireworks in a private setting, please familiarise yourself with our Fireworks Code before purchasing. It is designed to help keep you and your loved ones safe.
“I would like to stress that this is our busiest night of the year and that we must maintain a capacity to respond to emergencies.
“Last year we saw a large spike in deliberate fire-setting and this can divert firefighters away from genuine emergencies, where lives may be at risk.
“We do take a zero-tolerance approach to fire-setting and will work with police to identify those responsible, but we also realise it’s a very small minority of people involved.
“Ultimately, I would urge those who are marking Bonfire Night to help us by reading all safety advice before using fireworks and by helping protect Scotland’s emergency services.”
“For more information visit our fireworks safety page at ww.firescotland.gov.uk/your-safety/fireworks-safety.aspx”
Councillor Amy McNeese-Mechan, Chair of Edinburgh Community Safety Partnership said: “Protecting our communities from harm is a priority for us all in the Edinburgh Community Safety Partnership and we will continue to work with our partners to prevent anti-social behaviour in the lead up to Bonfire Night to ensure that Edinburgh remains a safe place for its residents.
“It’s important that we all look after each other. Fly tipping during the Bonfire and Fireworks season can be a major cause of fire and we ask that if anyone sees fly tipping or notices an area where there is a build-up of refuse or combustible material to please let the council know.”
A man responsible for non-recent sexual offences against children and women has been convicted.
John Hoy, 46, was found guilty of numerous serious sexual offences including rape, committed between 1989 and 2005, at the High Court in Edinburgh yesterday (Monday, 26 October).
Detectives from Police Scotland’s Public Protection Unit in Edinburgh began an investigation into Hoy after a woman came forward to report the non-recent sexual abuse Hoy had subjected her to.
He was subsequently arrested and charged on 31 October, 2018.
Detective Sergeant Alan Sharp, of Edinburgh’s Public Protection Unit, said: “Hoy’s behaviour over an extended period of time was deplorable with no thought of the suffering it caused his young victims.
“I would like to commend the victims who bravely came forward and assisted the police. The guilty verdict is testament to the evidence they provided and the investigative work carried out by officers in the Public Protection Unit.
“We treat all reports of sexual crime – no matter when the offence happened – with the utmost professionalism and sensitivity to bring perpetrators of such crimes to justice. Anyone who has been subjected to abuse should feel confident in coming forward, that we will believe you and will thoroughly investigate.”
If you have concerns or information these can be reported to Police Scotland on 101 or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Police are appealing for information after an 18-year-old man was seriously injured in the Gorgie area. The incident happened around 5pm on Monday (19 October) when the teenager walked into a shop on Gorgie Road with a stab wound to his leg.
It’s believed the incident happened in the Westfield Court area. The 18-year-old was taken to the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary.
There is no description of the suspect.
Detective Sergeant Rory Legge, of Corstorphine CID, said: “This happened at a busy time of the day and we know there would’ve been a lot of traffic and people in the area.
“I would ask anyone who witnessed this incident or saw any suspicious behaviour around the Westfield Court area just before 5pm on Monday to contact us.”
Anyone with information should contact Police Scotland on 101 quoting incident number 2228 of 19 October 2020. Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Police are appealing for information after a woman was robbed of jewellery on the cycle path in Boswall on Saturday evening.
At around 6.30pm on Saturday (17 October), a 39-year-old woman was walking along the cycle path between Wardie Road and Granton Road, when she was approached by a man on a bike who, after a short conversation, demanded her watch and diamond rings before riding off towards Drylaw.
The woman was not injured but has been left shaken by the incident.
The suspect is described as white, of medium build, with short dark hair and had a local accent. He was wearing a blue surgical face mask, dark coloured cotton tracksuit top and bottoms. He was on a dark coloured bike with no lights.
Detective Constable Peter Lyons, Costorphine CID, Edinburgh, said: “Whilst the watch and jewellery have a combined value of approximately a four-figure sum of money, it’s more their sentimental value – especially the lady’s engagement and eternity rings – that is upsetting for her.
“She was on the walkway which goes between Wardie Road and Granton Road and was just approaching the Wardie Road exit when she was approached by the man.
“This can be a busy thoroughfare and I am sure there would have been people about who either saw the robbery or who may have seen the man on the bike hanging about the area.
“Officers are checking CCTV at the moment to try an identify the thief, however, would appeal to anyone who may have information that will assist their investigation to come forward.
“If you think you can help, please call Costorphine Police Station via 101 quoting reference number 3256 of Saturday, 17 October, 2020. Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
This weekend marks international Anti-Slavery Day, on Sunday 18 October 2020.
Assistant Chief Constable Judi Heaton is reminding everyone that slavery is not a thing of the past but continues to blight Scotland’s communities:
It is up to all of us to Spot the Signs, to help those being exploited, to stand against traffickers and protect our communities.
Human Trafficking is the illegal trade in human beings, both adults and children, for the purpose of commercial exploitation.
Victims of human trafficking are often the most vulnerable members of a community however, there is no such thing as a typical victim.
Victims are known to come from numerous continents such as Asia, Africa and (Eastern) Europe. They may arrive in your community after being kidnapped, smuggled or tricked by a friend offering a job and the opportunity of a new life, however soon discover that their lives are not their own and are forced into a life of exploitation with no way of escaping.
Trafficking victims are often forced into prostitution, exploitative labour, the illegal drugs trade, stealing or domestic slavery to pay back the debt that traffickers claim they owe them for travel. Victims are trapped in this life with limited freedom or options. They regularly have their identity documents removed and are often subjected to physical and mental abuse, torture and rape.
Human Trafficking exists in communities across Scotland and also can involve people who are resident legally in the country. The industry of trafficking people has become so sophisticated that it often goes unnoticed and assistance from the public is crucial to identify potential signs of Human Trafficking within your community and reporting any concerns to the police.
You do not have to report concerns to the police – you can pass on information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Potential Signs of Human Trafficking
Human Trafficking can happen anywhere, victims could be living next to you. Look for the signs:
Sexual Exploitation
Multiple female foreign nationals living at the same address.
Occupants are rarely seen outside.
Occupants of premises change regularly.
Male callers day and night staying for only a short time.
Sexual debris such as condoms, call cards, advertisements.
Forced Labour/Domestic Servitude
Migrant workers who have the right to free movement in and around the United Kingdom, but have limitations placed on their employment may be exploited through Industries such as agriculture, factories, hotels and restaurants.
Large number of foreign nationals living in the same address.
Occupants change regularly.
Van transported at unusual times of the day and/or night.
Workers movements are monitored and/or controlled by others.
Workers may seem fearful of employers, police or any other external agency and poorly integrate with the wider community.
Employers, or someone else, is holding their passport and/or legal documents.
Workers have no days off or holiday time.
Workers display signs of physical abuse i.e. bruises, cuts and signs of untreated medical problems.
Workers display signs of malnutrition, dehydration, exhaustion and poor personal hygiene.
Domestic Servitude is where an adult or child is forced into the role of a servant. This often occurs within a residential address. Signs to look out for include:
The person is rarely allowed out of the house, unless their employer or guardian is with them.
They have no private space or a proper place to sleep i.e. on the floor or sofa.
They have a poor diet or are given the family’s leftover food to eat.
They are subject to mental, physical, sexual abuse, threats or other cruelty.
A child, may have poor attendance at school, no access to education and no time to play with its peers.
There is no interaction with the family, friends or other authorities.
If you suspect there are people who have been trafficked into your community or you have concerns about an adult or child whom you think may be being exploited, please report this to Police Scotland on 101 or alternatively to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, where your call will be treated in confidence.
CRIMESTOPPERS have launched their annual campaign aiming to tackle firework misuse and deliberate fire-setting, and to encourage people to contact them 100% anonymously if they know or suspect someone is involved.
The campaign is supported by the Scottish Government’s Building Safer Communities team.
Firework misuse can have a massive impact on communities in Scotland, with some local areas experiencing ongoing and sustained anti-social behaviour and risk to life linked to fireworks.
In some communities people may be afraid to engage with those responsible for anti-social behaviour for fear of being targeted, which is why our anonymous service is so valuable.
The Crimestoppers campaign omplements two national Scottish Government campaigns, and provides extra support for areas in Edinburgh, Glasgow and West Lothian which have experienced higher levels of firework misuse. These communities have been involved in the preparation of the campaign.
National Manager for Crimestoppers in Scotland Angela Parker explained: “With no public displays this year, some communities could be at increased risk of serious firework misuse and deliberate fire-setting.
“Firework misuse puts people, property and pets at risk, so we have worked closely with a range of partners to devise a campaign that will enable local people to fully understand the law around misuse of fireworks, and the penalties.
“Last year, our charity in Scotland received 63 pieces of information that helped prevent attacks, fire-setting and serious misuse, so we know, together we can make Bonfire Night safer for everyone.”
Ash Denham MSP, Minister for Community Safety, said: “The Scottish Government’s ambition is for all of Scotland’s communities to be safe places for everyone to live, work and enjoy. We all have a part to play in making that vision a reality.
“Misuse of fireworks can be hugely damaging and distressing and will not be tolerated. I would encourage anyone who witnesses or has information about criminality relating to fireworks to report it so that action can be taken to prevent further harm to our communities.
“Crimestoppers’ unique reporting service allows people to provide information about crime entirely anonymously. By using this service people can help to prevent, detect and solve crime within their local community.”
The campaign is also complemented by a youth programme, Fearless.org, raising awareness among 11-18-year-olds about the risks, and encouraging anonymous reporting about planned attacks and deliberate fire-raising.
https://youtu.be/oK6J6-CpfhI
Underage sales of fireworks
We are also encouraging people to let us know about anyone who’s selling fireworks to underage people.
In Scotland, it is illegal to sell outdoor fireworks to anyone who is younger than 18 years old. And it is illegal to sell indoor fireworks (such as sparklers) to anyone who is younger than 16 years old.
Other contact numbers
In an emergency: contact Police or Fire on 999 Non-emergency: Police Scotland 101 Underage sales:Scotland Trading Standards Office (and for unsafe or unlicenced storage by shops and dangerous fireworks)
If you know or suspect who is misusing fireworks or causing deliberate fires in your area, or selling them illegally, you can contact Crimestoppers 100% anonymously.
Your computer’s IP addresses are never traced and no-one will ever know you contacted us. For telephone calls, we have have no caller line display, no 1471 facility and have never traced a call.
More than 500,000 bikes are stolen in the UK each year because they’re poorly secured or not secured at all. More than half of all bikes stolen are taken from the owner’s property.
Help protect your bike by following these guidelines:
Photograph your bike and record all of your bike’s details and distinguishing features and keep in a safe place. The serial number can be found on the bottom bracket.
Register your bicycle securely online at the National Cycle Database, www.bikeregister.com Doing this may help to recover your bike if it goes missing. On registering, you can also download a bike logbook where you can record your bike’s details to keep at hand.
Security mark your bike’s frame with a UV pen or other method – the mark should include your home postcode and house number.
Insure your bike, either on contents insurance or separately if required.
